The Einsiedler, also known as the Einsiedeln, is a historic Swiss warmblood horse population or breed with roots reaching back to the eleventh century. It has been bred at the Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln in the Canton of Schwyz and is also called the Cavallo della Madonna. The breed’s history changed in the mid-twentieth century, when its stud-book was discontinued and the Einsiedler was incorporated with the Swiss Halfblood and traditional local breeds, including the Ajoie, Erlenbacher and Entlebucher, in the creation of the Swiss Warmblood. The traditional type continues to be bred at the abbey, despite reports that it is extinct. Its overall population is thought to be around a hundred, with fewer than ten foals born annually. The Einsiedler’s long connection to one Swiss abbey and its small continuing population make it a distinct part of Switzerland’s horse-breeding history.
Who it is for
The Einsiedler may interest readers drawn to historic Swiss horse breeds and the traditional type still bred at Einsiedeln Abbey. Its small population is relevant to anyone considering the breed’s current presence.
What is good
- Roots trace back to the eleventh century
- Traditional type still bred at the abbey
- Distinct Swiss breed history
What to know first
- Stud-book was discontinued
- Fewer than ten foals born each year
- Reported to be extinct
Verdict
The Einsiedler has a long Swiss history and a traditional type that continues at the abbey. Its small population and discontinued stud-book are important context.
